Becoming pregnant and having a baby is amazing. During the nine-month journey, the body goes through some major changes. Frequently, moms will gain some weight during pregnancy. It’s normal and expected. The weight gain might just be 10 or 12 lbs., or it could be quite a bit more. The hormones in the body have changed, and even the blood volume in the body has increased in that time.
The muscles in the abdomen have changed, too. They have stretched and become weak. Many of the muscles in the body have been altered, and even the joints might feel different from before. Many moms look in the mirror and don’t recognize themselves after they have their babies. They want to get their bodies back to the shape they were in before. It is possible, but it will take some work and some time.
Exercise During Pregnancy
Women can get some exercise during pregnancy, as long as they are doing modified exercises, and they aren’t pushing themselves too hard. There shouldn’t be any exercises that make them lay on their backs or their stomachs, of course. By exercising during pregnancy, it can help to keep the muscles in a bit better shape. However, not everyone has the chance to do this.
Exercise After Pregnancy
After pregnancy, moms can get started with their workouts as soon as they feel healthy enough. They don’t want to start exercising the day they get home from the hospital, but they can start exercising a few days later as their energy starts to return.
Keep in mind that it’s normal for the stomach to take several weeks or more to shrink back to its normal size. After all, the uterus went through a big change and grew over nine months. Give it a little time to get back to normal. During that time, though, moms can start exercising by going for walks, doing some aerobics and cardio, and doing strength training. Just take it easy in the first couple of weeks, and then build up the intensity of the exercise. Those who have had a C-section will need to have more time to heal, of course.
When getting back into shape, consider some fun types of exercise that are enjoyable. This will differ from one person to the next. Whether it’s going on long hikes, swimming, yoga, weight training, playing tennis, etc., there are exercises for everyone. Some moms end up in even better shape after giving birth and getting back into the exercise habit.
Consider More Solutions to Get Into Shape
Moms might also want to consider body contouring therapy, such as Photobiomodulation therapy, which can help with weight loss and increase metabolism. Appetite suppressants could help as well. Everyone will respond differently during the postpartum period. When these options are used in conjunction with eating a healthy diet and getting quality exercise, it does make it easier to lose weight and keep it off. Get in touch with XCellR8 Health today to learn more about the available options.
